Insurance Curator If you’ve had a recent accident or a DUI, finding affordable, reliable car insurance becomes urgent and more complicated. Insurers view drivers with accidents or DUIs as “high-risk,” which often triggers steep rate increases, policy cancellations, or the need for an SR-22 filing. This guide explains realistic costs, top carriers and product options for high-risk drivers in the USA, state-specific expectations (Los Angeles/California, Houston/Texas, Miami/Florida, Chicago/Illinois), and practical steps to lower premiums.
What “high-risk” means and immediate consequences
- High-risk driver: recent at-fault accident, DUI/DWI conviction, multiple violations, or lapses in coverage.
- Immediate insurer actions:
- Premium increases — often large and immediate.
- Nonrenewal or cancellation — some standard carriers may drop you.
- SR-22 requirement — proof of financial responsibility often required after DUI; must be filed with the state.
- Typical timeline: DUI and serious accidents can affect rates for 3–10 years depending on state and offense severity.
Sources show a DUI can raise premiums substantially — commonly 80% to 200% higher than pre-DUI rates depending on state, insurer, and driving history (see sources at the end). SR-22 filing fees typically range from $15–$100 depending on state and provider.
How much will insurance cost after a DUI or accident? (Estimates by city)
Below are estimated annual ranges for typical drivers before and after a DUI/serious at-fault crash. Actual rates vary widely by vehicle, coverage limits, driving history, and insurer.
| City (State) | Typical pre-incident annual premium (estimate) | Estimated post-DUI/major-accident annual premium |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | $1,500–$2,200 | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Houston, TX | $1,600–$2,400 | $3,200–$4,500 |
| Miami, FL | $2,800–$4,000 | $5,000–$7,000+ |
| Chicago, IL | $1,400–$2,200 | $3,000–$4,500 |
Notes:
- Miami/Florida often displays the highest post-DUI increases due to local risk factors and state market dynamics.
- These are conservative national-market-based estimates; local quotes may be higher or lower. (See industry studies below for national averages and percent increases.)
Best types of insurers for high-risk drivers
- Nonstandard / high-risk insurers — specialize in covering drivers with violations:
- The General, Acceptance Insurance, Dairyland, National General.
- Major carriers that sometimes retain high-risk drivers — GEICO, Progressive, State Farm, Allstate (may be more likely to cancel or nonrenew depending on offense and state).
- Specialty SR-22 providers — many local brokers and independent insurers can file SR-22 on your behalf.
Quick comparison (typical traits)
| Insurer type | Who it suits | Typical annual range after DUI | SR-22 support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nonstandard (The General, Acceptance) | Multiple violations/DUI, limited options | $2,000–$6,000 | Yes |
| Major carriers (GEICO, Progressive) | Single recent incident, good credit otherwise | $2,000–$5,000 | Often yes — but may nonrenew |
| Local independent insurers | Drivers with severe histories, prefer local care | Varies widely | Yes (often) |
Estimated price examples by company (nationwide averages and markets as of 2023–2024):
- The General: commonly quoted for high-risk drivers — $2,500–$5,000/year after DUI.
- Acceptance Insurance: often $2,000–$4,500/year for drivers with recent convictions.
- Progressive (high-risk quotes): $2,500–$5,000/year depending on state and coverage.
- GEICO and State Farm: may offer quotes in $2,000–$4,500/year for less severe incidents but can nonrenew after repeated offenses.
(Actual company pricing depends on your state, vehicle, history, and coverage selections — always compare live quotes.)
State-focused tips and expectations
- California (Los Angeles): California requires liability minimums. After a DUI, expect sharp increases and possible SR-22. Consider nonstandard carriers and compare quotes — see our deep dive for CA: Best Insurance For Cars in California: How to Meet State Minimums and Save.
- Texas (Houston): Texas insurers must follow state rules on cancellations/nonrenewals; shopping multiple carriers can yield large savings.
- Florida (Miami): Among the highest rates in the country — a DUI can push premiums into the $5,000–$7,000+ range.
- Illinois (Chicago): Mid-range increases; voluntary completion of defensive driving and DUI programs can help demonstrate remediation.
How to shop and lower premiums after a DUI/accident
- Compare multiple companies and use specialized nonstandard insurers.
- Get quotes from at least 5 carriers, including local independent agencies.
- Compare coverage, not just price.
- Ask about SR-22 options and filing fees — some insurers include the filing; others add an administrative fee.
- Increase deductibles to lower premium (but ensure you can cover the higher deductible).
- Defensive driving / DUI diversion programs — completing court-ordered or voluntary programs may reduce premiums over time.
- Usage-based programs — Progressive Snapshot, Allstate Drivewise, or GEICO DriveEasy can reduce rates if you drive safely.
- Bundle policies (home + auto) or seek multi-car discounts if available.
- Maintain continuous coverage — gaps increase risk profiles and costs.
- Improve credit score where allowed — in most states, better credit correlates with lower rates.
For guidance on handling poor credit plus high-risk status, see: Best Insurance For Cars With Bad Credit: Tips to Lower Premiums and Top Insurers.
How long will the penalty affect your rate?
- DUI convictions typically affect premiums for 3–7 years on average; in extreme cases (felony DUI), it can extend longer.
- Accidents (at-fault) typically influence rates for 3–5 years.
- Each state uses its own point system and look-back periods.
Choosing between carriers — practical checklist
- Does the insurer offer SR-22 filing and reasonable fees?
- Does the company specialize in high-risk drivers or have a nonstandard division?
- Will the insurer cancel or nonrenew after one violation?
- Are there discounts you can still qualify for (safe driver course, defensive driving, usage-based saves)?
- What are the claim handling reviews and financial strength ratings?
Compare major providers and their policies more comprehensively: Best Insurance For Cars by Provider: Comparing GEICO, State Farm, Progressive and USAA.
Final steps after an accident or DUI
- Cooperate with legal requirements (court, alcohol education, SR-22).
- Notify your insurer truthfully — hiding violations can result in denial of coverage later.
- Shop quotes aggressively and document completed mitigation such as classes.
- If you receive a cancellation, secure a replacement policy before the current policy lapses to avoid gaps.
Sources and further reading
- ValuePenguin — analysis on how DUIs and violations affect insurance premiums: https://www.valuepenguin.com/how-duis-affect-car-insurance
- The Zebra — data-driven look at DUI impacts on insurance rates: https://www.thezebra.com/insurance-news/2820/how-does-a-dui-affect-insurance/
- Insurance Information Institute — overview of DUI effects and SR-22 basics: https://www.iii.org/article/how-dui-affects-car-insurance
Related topics